Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Batteries used in forklifts are pricey pieces of machinery that are quite big weighing in the thousands of pounds. The task of installing and charging these batteries is something which must be planned out ahead of time in order to make sure that these methods can be done correctly and safely. Maintaining a sound charging method and proper handling can really increase the standard lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is important not to connect the battery to the charger until it is at 20 percent capacity or less. By charging the battery when it is more than 20%, the battery's lifespan can actually be shortened. On roughly each 5th charge cycle, the charger should be set on the weekend or equalize setting, depending on which model of charger you are utilizing.
The cycle of charging should not get interrupted. You must avoid using the battery for several hours once the charge cycle is done. By practicing these procedures, you can help make certain that you get the maximum battery performance available.
Charger Maintenance
Be sure to have the charger turned off when in the process of hooking up the battery to the charger. Connect the charger to the battery and not the lift truck. This is a common mistake which can inadvertently cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. It is also really important that the amperage of the battery should match that of the charger.
The battery should never be allowed to to deep discharge or to completely discharge. This will ultimately shorten the lift of the battery and may even prevent the charger from being able to start. If the battery charger reads that there is no activity in the battery, it will not start the charge cycle. If this situation occurs, a technician would need to be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.